Sean Mason Trio plays the Cool Jazz of Ahmad Jamal

May 25 • The Jazz Room @ The Stage Door Theater

9:15pm

A rising star in the jazz arena, pianist Sean Mason delivers a cool and modern approach to the music of legendary Ahmad Jamal, often known for his trio’s interpretive use of space and lightness of touch. Sean’s playing reflects… “spiritual, spontaneous bursts of joy, melancholy and fury. Something special not to be missed.”

The JAZZ ROOM provides a casual and intimate setting with tables and a full far, reminiscent of the classic jazz rooms of yesteryear.

Charlotte native, Sean Mason is a musician, composer, and bandleader. As a versatile artist, Mason interweaves through genres and styles but will always leave his audience with a recognizable footprint. Sean Mason realizes the potential of music to provoke unity, transform lives, and communicate love, and he will always incorporate those values in his performances. JazzArts Charlotte is proud to recognize Sean Mason as an alumnus of the All-Star Jazz Youth Ensemble program.

Pianist Ahmad Jamal helped to evolve the cool jazz movement. At the age of fourteen, he was recognized as a “coming great” by the pianist Art Tatum. Trained in traditional jazz, Jamal entered the world of jazz at a time when the blinding speed of bebop was central. Jamal’s small ensemble emphasized a lightness of space and time that moved jazz in the direction of popular music. He is known for his influence on and friendship of Miles Davis. Most recognized for his chart-topping album “But Not for Me”, his music is found on the soundtrack of the 1995 movie “Bridges of Madison County”.